Assessing the extent of hypertension screening and management among people living with HIV in selected antiretroviral therapy clinics in Blantyre
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Date
2022-05-12
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Abstract
Hypertension is one of the non-communicable diseases causing significant morbidity and mortality
all over the world. The factors leading to hypertension are numerous and one of the important
predisposing factors includes advanced age. Persons living with HIV (PLHIV) are at increased
risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). In developing countries like Malawi where HIV/AIDS
related deaths have declined due to antiretroviral therapy, the prevalence of hypertension in people
living with HIV has increased over the years prompting the health systems to respond by
development of policies that addresses this trend. Integration of services for hypertension (HTN),
the primary CVD risk factor, into HIV care programs is recommended in Malawi, though, uptake
has been limited. Screening PLHIV for HTN and retention and control of those diagnosed would
facilitate leverage the successes of HIV programs.
This study will be an analytical cross sectional study to assess the extent of hypertension screening
and management in people living with HIV in selected ART clinics in Blantyre.
Objectives
The study objectives are to evaluate the proportion of people living with HIV on ART
screened for hypertension in ART clinics; to identify the challenges associated with screening
of HTN in ART patients
Methodology
The study will employ quantitative methods by collecting structured data using face to face
interviews and a structured questionnaire. Both the ART providers as well as the clients will be
interviewed.
Expected findings
We expect to find the challenges affecting the hypertension screening, the extent of screening for
hypertension and evaluate the reasons for inadequate or lack of screening.
Dissemination
The study results will be disseminated to stakeholders such as individual health facilities using
the DHSS. The University will be given a copy of the results for library use and one copy will be
given to the department of Public health.12-May-2022
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These findings will inform policy makers on the progress of the implementation of the
hypertension screening policy for ART clients. It will show the need to practically conduct a
comprehensive study to ascertain the operationalization of the guidelines stipulated in the 2016
guidelines for management of HIV in adults and children.
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Undergraduate Protocol